Multiplanar arc boost radiation therapy for prostate cancer
Article Abstract:
Two external-beam radiation therapy techniques for localized prostatic cancer were studied. These two external-beam techniques are: multiplanar arc, and biplanar arc. Conventional external-beam treatment of prostate cancer typically involves the fuse of a four-field technique, followed by a boost dose that encompasses the prostate and immediate periprostatic tissues. Both of the techniques that were compared employed iodine-125, a radioactive isotope. The researchers originally thought that the multiplanar arc technique would be the most promising method to pursue. However, as the findings indicate, the biplanar technique was eventually preferred. First, the rectal dose of radiation is minimized with the biplanar arc technique. Second, the multiplanar arc technique is very difficult and time consuming to perform. The scope of the study did not include a quantitative evaluation and comparison of the bladder radiation dose for the technique investigated. It was concluded that the biplanar arc technique is effective in minimizing the dose of radiation adjacent to critical structures while delivering a uniform dose to the target volume. Researchers now intend to use the biplanar arc technique for the boost phase in the treatment of prostatic carcinoma when small target volumes are applicable.
Publication Name: Radiology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0033-8419
Year: 1989
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Tumorectomy and radiation therapy in early breast cancer: a report on 392 patients
Article Abstract:
Breast cancer found at an early stage is considered treatable with conservative procedures, such as removal of the lump or affected area of the breast, and radiation therapy. Mastectomy (surgical excision of the breast) is no longer considered the necessary routine treatment. This study follows 392 cases of breast cancer that were treated conservatively over a 10-year period to analyze long-term results. There were 231 patients with stage I cancer, and 161 with stage II cancer; none had metastasis (spread of the cancer to other areas). The overall rate of cancer recurrence for this group was 13 percent. Recurrence was higher in the stage II group, and in patients with axillary lymph node involvement. Survival rates with conservative treatment were similar to those observed in women treated with total mastectomy. Cosmetic satisfaction was experienced by over 90 percent of the patients in this study. Outcome is most favorable for patients with small tumors, which can best be found during breast screening procedures such as mammogram. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: Radiology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0033-8419
Year: 1990
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